9 Comments

This is the story of many in our small-craft tribe: We followed the High Road for years, did okay or better, rarely questioned our choices, bought bigger boats and loved them…but at some point reversed course. Recalling youthful adventures in small craft, and seeing potholes along the High Road we slowly downsized, simplified, and understood we could be happier with less—maybe a lot less. And as a bonus, we can today afford the small-boat life deep into retirement, slowing everything down as we circle toward final approach. There’s nothing wrong with either choice, but I feel richer than ever with only boats in the bank.

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I have successfully split “the Roads”…raised kids, invested a bit…ALWAYS spent less than I made…retired early (because I could!)….spent most all of my life on “the Low Road”……simply messing about in boats & RV’s….early into my 80’s and still do’in!! So many boats, so little time left!

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I've watched with pleasure Anke and Dave's videos of their travels and low impact life; a pleasure for me because it expresses an obvious love for each other and for their environment. At 76 I made my major choices long ago, so the choices I make now are for each day. Good then to be reminded of the costs and rewards for each path.

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Live below your means - Simple

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One should always applaud the successful application of a dream, particularly when time has placed a stamp of approval on same. No one should stand in the way of other folks dreams. Having said that I would like to point out that it is OK to have and pursue a different route. There can be things one doesn't want to live without on the other path.

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But where would I keep my books? One of the joys of my broad collection is that I can reach out and find something that amuses and enlightens me at any time.

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What a wonderful story filled with a good theme. Thank you so much for sharing. I think most of us who are still sailors on small craft have taken the low road, though the high road was taken as well. Most of us can relate to the "freeway in the foreground" displaying a car whose tire tracks are covered by an overgrowth [poorly paraphrased...sorry]. Added to our high road adventures were to raise children, which were more of a dangerous turn in the road. It does not matter how we differ, for we join you in your adventures of the low road. I hope to meet most of you oneday along the road we too have chosen to go.

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If only!

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How low can one go? The answer is different for each of us, but living "low" needs prioritizing! I spoke with a young fellow, who bought a new truck! He told me he hates it and missed his old used pickup, as the new truck keeps him in dept! Get a new truck, house, boat if you like, but take a moment to think what is the least you need! The money saved, buys time! Time is what living is all about! This article sets a great example! AllthebestRoy

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